Balloon Crashes in Temecula

TEMECULA (CNS) - A hot air balloon exploded over Temecula Wine Country today, and one person was burned and two others also badly hurt as it crashed near vineyards, Riverside County Fire Department spokesman Mark Annas said.

The balloon, with five people on board, crash-landed at the corner of Vino Way and Calle Cabernet at about 7:44 a.m., Riverside County Fire Department spokesman Mark Annas said.

One person was taken to a regional burn center, and the extent of that person's injuries was not disclosed. Two other people had what were described as major injuries

Two more people were taken to a hospital with what firefighters moderate to minor injuries, Annas said.

The explosion happened in the gondola and will be investigated by the Federal Aviation Agency, FAA Public Affairs Manager Ian Gregor said. The National Transportation Safety Board will also look into what happened, Annas said.

The crash was in Temecula Wine Country, amidst large estates and grapevines. Several companies offer balloon excursions and wine picnics during cooler months, when hot air balloons can fly.